Alternative Therapies Revisited

Alternative therapies revisted

Last month we looked at some well-known and lesser known therapies such as Ayurvedic medicine, Reiki and Kinesiology. This month we are back with a few more.

Reflexology

Reflexology uses pressure at various points on the feet in order to alleviate symptoms elsewhere in the body. Practitioners claim that the feet carry a map of the rest of the body, and that pressure, for example, on the big toe can have effects in the head. Each point on the foot is said to be a 'reflex' for another part of the body. The term 'reflex' indicates a kind of mirror image (a reflection), rather than a more specific reflex mediated by nerves.

However, these direct connections between the feet and other areas of the body have no foundation in anatomy or physiology.

Neither is there any evidence to support the idea that 'energy channels' connect the areas. In actual fact the whole notion of energy and its flows is completely meaningless from a scientific point of view Nor is there any evidence that accumulations of calcium salts or uric acid in the feet relate to health problems elsewhere. Unusual thickenings of areas of the feet can be more easily ascribed to badly-fitting shoes.

But setting all this aside, does reflexology work? As with all such alternative therapies, fans of the technique believe strongly that it does. It is claimed to have beneficial effects on many stress-related conditions such as headaches, and on other conditions with a more direct physical cause, such as kidney stones, asthma and cataracts. Some practitioners even claim to be able to diagnose conditions simply by feeling the feet.

As with many other therapies, the jury's still out, but there is no doubt that it is realxing and anything that relieves stress in these stress-filled days has to be beneficial. For more information go to http://www.reflexology.org/index.php

Alexander Technique
The Alexander Technique is a practical method developed by FM Alexander for changing the way we 'use' our bodies in the activities of everyday life, at home, at school or at work, or during sporting activities.

Alexander was an Australian actor who developed the Technique at the end of the last Century. He suffered recurrent boats of hoarseness which were severe enough to threaten his career. He came to suspect that his problems were the result of something he was doing and after several years spent observing his reactions, he found that the key lay in the relationship between the head, neck and back. He noticed that when he came to speak, he immediately stiffened the neck and pulled back the head. He developed a system to prevent his pattern of mis-use which not only cured his vocal problem but also helped his general health and well-being.

Alexander had originally thought that these problems were particular to himself but soon began to notice the same patterns in others. Using his own experience, he developed a way of teaching which he called the Alexander Technique. Through gentle manipulation and verbal instruction Alexander helped pupils become more aware of the way that they use themselves and develop greater conscious control of their poise and movement. You can find more details at http://www.internethealthlibrary.com/Therapies/AlexanderTechnique.htm

Aromatherapy message
Aromatherapy - the word is everywhere. Oils, candles, bath essence - you name it - there will be an aromatherapy version everywhere you look. But what is is really?

Aromatherapy is actually one of the fastest growing complementary therapies in the UK. It is described as the systematic use of essential oils in holistic treatments to improve physical well being. Essential Oils, extracted from plants, possess distinctive therapeutic properties, which can be utilised to improve health and prevent disease. Both their physiological and psychological effects combine well to promote positive health. These natural plant oils are applied in a variety of ways, including massage, baths and inhalations. These are readily absorbed through the skin and have gentle physiological effects. Aromatherapy is an especially effective treatment for stress-related problems and a variety of chronic conditions.

During your treatment session, the aromatherapist will ask questions about your medical history, your general health and lifestyle. This will help him or her decide which essential oils are most appropriate for you as an individual. After selecting and blending appropriate essential oils, the aromatherapist will usually apply the oils in combination with massage. A session normally lasts for 60 to 90 minutes and costs between £20 and £40.

To find a therapist visit the website at http://www.aapa.org.uk/

Shiatsu
Last but not least Shiatsu is a traditional hands-on Japanese healing art. It can help in a wide range of conditions from specific injuries to more general symptoms of poor health. Shiatsu is a deeply relaxing experience and regular sessions help to prevent the build-up of stress in our daily lives.

According to the Japanese medical department of the Ministry of Welfare in December 1957, "Shiatsu technique refers to the use of fingers and palm of one's hand to apply pressure to particular sections on the surface of the body for the purpose of correcting the imbalances of the body, and for maintaining and promoting health. It is also a method contributing to the healing of specific illnesses."
In Shiatsu therapy, practitioners promote the prevention and recovery of illnesses by stimulating the immune system and natural healing power that people already possess. Like acupuncture, Shiatsu is based on the holistic system of traditional Chinese medicine, where illness is thought to result from imbalances in the natural flow of energy, or qi (pronounced "chee") through the body.

Shiatsu therapists use finger and palm pressure to energetic pathways, called meridians to improve the flow of qi. A scientific explanation is that shiatsu calms an overactive sympathetic nervous system, which improves circulation, relieves stiff muscles and alleviates stresss.

For more information go to http://www.shiatsusociety.org/public/index.shtml

So that's another selection of alternative therapies! I'm off for an aromatherapy massage or maybe a bit of Shiatsu. See you soon!

Veronika
Health & Beauty Editor

Back to Health & Beauty